New Super Mario Bros U – VG247http://www.vg247.com
VG247.comFri, 09 Dec 2016 21:47:52 +0000en-UShourly1https://wordpress.org/?v=4.5.3Mario Mega Bundle for UK includes Super Mario 3D World, Wii U, New Super Mario Bros. U, morehttp://www.vg247.com/2013/11/21/mario-mega-bundle-for-uk-includes-super-mario-3d-world-wii-u-new-super-mario-bros-u-more/
http://www.vg247.com/2013/11/21/mario-mega-bundle-for-uk-includes-super-mario-3d-world-wii-u-new-super-mario-bros-u-more/#commentsThu, 21 Nov 2013 20:58:19 +0000http://www.vg247.com/?p=428868Nintendo UK has announced a Mario-themed Wii U bundle which will go on sale through its online store November 29. The Mario Mega Bundle includes: a Premium Wii U console, New Super Mario Bros. U, the DLC New Super Luigi U and Super Mario 3D World. It also comes with a Mario hat you can wear on dates, as well as a Mario-themed Wii Remote. It will run you £299.
]]>http://www.vg247.com/2013/11/21/mario-mega-bundle-for-uk-includes-super-mario-3d-world-wii-u-new-super-mario-bros-u-more/feed/4New Super Mario Bros., Super Luigi Wii U Deluxe Set to replace Nintendo Land bundle at retailhttp://www.vg247.com/2013/10/23/new-super-mario-bros-and-new-super-luigi-wii-u-deluxe-set-to-replace-nintendo-land-bundle-at-retail/
http://www.vg247.com/2013/10/23/new-super-mario-bros-and-new-super-luigi-wii-u-deluxe-set-to-replace-nintendo-land-bundle-at-retail/#commentsWed, 23 Oct 2013 13:08:54 +0000http://www.vg247.com/?p=420158Nintendo has announced a Wii U Deluxe Set bundled with New Super Mario Bros. U and New Super Luigi U on one disc. The new configuration will sell for $299.99/£249.99 and replaces the existing Wii U Deluxe Set in North America and the UK which included Nintendo Land – but the game can still be purchased separately in stores and as a download in the eShop for $29.99. The bundle releases in North America on November 1 and in the UK November 8.
]]>http://www.vg247.com/2013/10/23/new-super-mario-bros-and-new-super-luigi-wii-u-deluxe-set-to-replace-nintendo-land-bundle-at-retail/feed/20Wii U family console bundles announced for Japan, get pricing & contents herehttp://www.vg247.com/2013/09/24/wii-u-family-console-bundles-announced-for-japan-get-pricing-contents-here/
http://www.vg247.com/2013/09/24/wii-u-family-console-bundles-announced-for-japan-get-pricing-contents-here/#commentsTue, 24 Sep 2013 09:38:19 +0000http://www.vg247.com/?p=411067Nintendo has announced two family console bundles, complete with games for the Japanese market. Get a run-down of the packs and their contents here.

GoNintendo posted details of the bundles today, with each pack coming in 32GB White and Black Premium Console flavours.

The first bundle will run you ¥32,800 (approx. $330 / £206), and includes a 32GB Black or White Wii U, New Super Mario Bros. U, Wii Party U, Sensor Bar, Wii Remote and 30 days of Nintendo’s new Karaoke service.

]]>http://www.vg247.com/2013/09/24/wii-u-family-console-bundles-announced-for-japan-get-pricing-contents-here/feed/3New Super Mario Bros U upate to add Pro Controller support, in-app DLChttp://www.vg247.com/2013/05/31/new-super-mario-bros-u-upate-to-add-pro-controller-support-in-app-dlc/
http://www.vg247.com/2013/05/31/new-super-mario-bros-u-upate-to-add-pro-controller-support-in-app-dlc/#commentsFri, 31 May 2013 02:24:02 +0000http://www.vg247.com/?p=372186According to the Japanese version of MiiVerse, as noted by NeoGAF, New Super Mario Bros U will be updated when the New Super Luigi U DLC releases. The update will enable Pro Controller support and also allow you to pick up the new content directly from the game’s menus rather than having to exit out to the eShop. There’s no word on whether the patch is headed west yet.

]]>http://www.vg247.com/2013/05/31/new-super-mario-bros-u-upate-to-add-pro-controller-support-in-app-dlc/feed/2GAME now selling eShop codeshttp://www.vg247.com/2013/04/19/game-now-selling-eshop-codes/
http://www.vg247.com/2013/04/19/game-now-selling-eshop-codes/#respondFri, 19 Apr 2013 14:35:12 +0000http://www.vg247.com/?p=360151High-street retailer GAME has become the first retailer in Europe to sell Nintendo’s eShop codes online and in stores. The retailer is selling a number of Wii U and 3DS titles through its website, with six Wii U titles ranging from Singstar at £32.99 to Monster Hunter 3 Ultimate, Ninja Gaiden 3: Razor’s Edge and New Super Mario Bros. U for £41.99.

]]>http://www.vg247.com/2013/04/19/game-now-selling-eshop-codes/feed/0Pokémon Black and White 2 titles have moved over 7.5 million worldwidehttp://www.vg247.com/2013/01/30/pokemon-black-and-white-2-titles-have-moved-over-7-5-million-worldwide/
http://www.vg247.com/2013/01/30/pokemon-black-and-white-2-titles-have-moved-over-7-5-million-worldwide/#commentsWed, 30 Jan 2013 19:39:30 +0000http://www.vg247.com/?p=334831Nintendo revealed total worldwide sales for a select number of titles in its Q3 earnings report this morning. According to the firm’s figures, the best-seller for the period was Pokémon Black and White 2 with 7.63 million units sold. The DS title was followed by New Super Mario Bros. 2 on 3DS for 5.96 million, Animal Crossing: New Leaf on 3DS with 2.73 million sold in Japan-only, New Super Mario Bros. U on Wii U with 2.01 million, and Nintendo Land sold with Wii U moving 2.33 million. The next title on the Pokémon docket is Pokémon X and Pokémon Y for 3DS, slated for release in October. Thanks, Siliconera.
]]>http://www.vg247.com/2013/01/30/pokemon-black-and-white-2-titles-have-moved-over-7-5-million-worldwide/feed/1Wii U: premium console made up 60% of UK launch saleshttp://www.vg247.com/2012/12/03/wii-u-premium-console-made-up-60-of-uk-launch-sales/
http://www.vg247.com/2012/12/03/wii-u-premium-console-made-up-60-of-uk-launch-sales/#commentsMon, 03 Dec 2012 09:29:34 +0000http://www.vg247.com/?p=320508Wii U launched across the UK on Friday 30th of November, and while its software has yet to make an impact on the UK top 40 charts, the premium bundle has reportedly sold well, accounting for 60% of Nintendo’s launch sales.

MCV reports that GfK Chart-Track has named the 32GB black premium Wii U as most popular SKU among launch buyers, at 60% of total sales.

It is followed by the ZombiU bundle – including a 32GB premium console and a copy of Ubisoft’s horror title – which accounted for 30% of sales, while Nintendo’s 8GB Basic pack garnered just 10%, which is understandable given its small hard drive space, which is reduced to just 3GB after the console’s day-one patch is installed.

Did you pick up a Wii U last week? What do you make of it? Let us know below.

]]>http://www.vg247.com/2012/12/03/wii-u-premium-console-made-up-60-of-uk-launch-sales/feed/2Nintendo Power’s final cover revealed, pays homage to first issuehttp://www.vg247.com/2012/11/30/nintendo-powers-final-cover-revealed-pays-homage-to-first-issue/
http://www.vg247.com/2012/11/30/nintendo-powers-final-cover-revealed-pays-homage-to-first-issue/#respondFri, 30 Nov 2012 19:44:06 +0000http://www.vg247.com/?p=320232Nintendo Power’s final cover has been revealed, and it pays homage to the magazine’s first cover. The original features clay versions of Mario and Bowser from Super Mario Bros. 2, and the final issue will feature clay version of the duo from New Super Mario Bros. U. The last issue of the magazine is expected to hit newsstands and mailboxes on December 6. Thanks, Joystiq.
]]>http://www.vg247.com/2012/11/30/nintendo-powers-final-cover-revealed-pays-homage-to-first-issue/feed/0Wii U: Nintendo’s UK midnight launch in videohttp://www.vg247.com/2012/11/30/wii-u-nintendos-uk-midnight-launch-in-video/
http://www.vg247.com/2012/11/30/wii-u-nintendos-uk-midnight-launch-in-video/#commentsFri, 30 Nov 2012 09:48:30 +0000http://www.vg247.com/?p=320088Wii U launched in the wee hours this morning, as plenty of eager gamers lined up outside HMV’s Oxford street store for a taste of Nintendo’s new console. Check out Nintendo’s launch footage below, and some feedback from those in attendance.

We’ve had our Wii U consoles for a week so far, and we’ve been getting to grips with how it all works, and the many games on offer. Check out some of our coverage below:

]]>http://www.vg247.com/2012/11/30/wii-u-nintendos-uk-midnight-launch-in-video/feed/1New Super Mario Bros. U trailer celebrates Australian launchhttp://www.vg247.com/2012/11/30/new-super-mario-bros-u-trailer-celebrates-australian-launch/
http://www.vg247.com/2012/11/30/new-super-mario-bros-u-trailer-celebrates-australian-launch/#respondFri, 30 Nov 2012 05:27:30 +0000http://www.vg247.com/?p=320051The Wii U released in Australia last night (and in Europe, several hours more pertinently) and that means plenty of happy Mario fans are settling down this weekend with New Super Mario Bros. U. It’s the first classic Mario game to launch alongside a Nintendo console in many years, so take a look at the release trailer and remember precisely why the cheerful plumber team drives hardware sales through the roof every single time.

New Super Mario Bros. U uses the Wii U’s GamePad in a rather ingenious way; when jumping, you can give it a little shake for extra height. Try it one or twice and you’ll be sold on motion controls forever.

]]>http://www.vg247.com/2012/11/30/new-super-mario-bros-u-trailer-celebrates-australian-launch/feed/0New Super Mario Bros. U: same princess, another castlehttp://www.vg247.com/2012/11/27/new-super-mario-bros-u-same-princess-another-castle/
http://www.vg247.com/2012/11/27/new-super-mario-bros-u-same-princess-another-castle/#commentsTue, 27 Nov 2012 09:26:25 +0000http://www.vg247.com/?p=318551New Super Mario Bros. U launches alongside Wii U across Europe from November 30th. VG247’s Dave Cook has been jumping his way through it to see if it’s worth a punt.

“As the game takes place across Super Mario World’s Dinosaur Land, it doesn’t take long for the wave of SNES-era nostalgia to wash over you. Seeing a line of scurrying Monty Moles bearing down on your position, or hearing the odd sting of Koji Kondo’s original score peeking through the new arrangement is enough to make hearts melt.”

Mario has become far too good at his job. No, I don’t mean plumbing, because how often do we actually see the portly plumber with his fist down a stagnant toilet? Even though it’s been 27 years since we first saw the Mario Bros. hopping around on the NES, they’re still showing most rival studios how platforming should be done.

When you’re already at the top of your game, where else can you go? After all, if Nintendo tried to dramatically shake up Mario’s core 2D exploits in a significant manner, then you could bet that many gamers would cry foul. Such experimentation seems to be what spin-offs like Paper Mario are for.

No, the best way for Nintendo to take Mario forward in his Wii U debut is to look back to the past and redefine what came before. Specifically, New Super Mario Bros. U is – in many ways – Super Mario World wearing HD skin, delivering a slew of familiar gameplay mechanics, locales and enemies that retro fans will appreciate.

Yet there is no sea change here, no Super Mario 64 moments of awe, or the revelatory design of Super Mario Galaxy. What you get is another solid platforming adventure across eight worlds in constant pursuit of Princess Peach. It’s a bankable format that you can rely on, and Nintendo knows it.

As the game takes place across Super Mario World’s Dinosaur Land, it doesn’t take long for the wave of SNES-era nostalgia to wash over you. Seeing a line of scurrying Monty Moles bearing down on your position, or hearing the odd sting of Koji Kondo’s original score peeking through the new arrangement is enough to make hearts melt.

Mounting Yoshi causes the drum lines to ramp up just like it did in 1992, the Koopalings -Bowser’s bothersome offspring – are also back to terrorise players at the end of each world, and shifty wizard Kamek pops up every so often to gum up our hero’s quest.

This is indeed a celebration of all things Super Mario World, although its rigid eight-world structure feels restrictive when compared to the branching paths and secret levels of its SNES predecessor.

Bonus Toad huts and warp pipe shortcuts break up the straight path a little, but this is a decidedly old-school approach to progression, with all of the forest, desert, ice, water and cloud world staples thrown in just to be safe.

One major setback of the old ways is that you still can’t perform a hard save anywhere on the world map. You can do a one-time only quick-save if you need to dash off out of the house, but hard saves require you to re-complete a mid or end-level castle. That’s just plain frustrating.

“Yoshi is also a powerful asset, as he can still gobble up enemies, hover while jumping and tread over some spiked foes, although he always pisses off at the end of each stage, which feels restrictive and out of sync with Super Mario World.”

While Nintendo has largely looked to Super Mario World for level inspiration, there are gameplay nods and musical riffs that span the series’ entire legacy, making stages something of a mash-up of ideas.

Only those with hearts of stone will refuse to be drawn in by the fun, and deny all memory of their misspent youth sat in front of the SNES. Personally, I loved living in the past while playing but still, even I can’t overlook the fact that much of the content here isn’t exactly new, it’s just delivered in a different way.

It’s clear to see that a Goomba will always be a Goomba, a Koopa Trooper likewise, and that there is only so much to be done with the source material at hand. What does impress however, is that almost every level within each of the game’s eight worlds delivers a unique hook.

One minute you could be scaling a giant stone fortress full of spinning cogs, then the next you may find yourself in an icy canyon being set upon by a gang of sliding penguins. There is a wide range of themes and mechanics at play, carefully sectioned so that every level on the world map offers something that feels fresh without breaking the mould.

New and returning power-ups also add a layer of fun into the mix, and are essential to collecting all three giant coins hidden in every level. New to the series is the Super Acorn, which dresses up characters in a flying squirrel suit. You can use it to glide a short distance, or boost up into the sky using the GamePad’s right trigger.

It’s an excellent power to use when falling to your death, or when trying to reach floating platforms or collectibles. Combine this with previous New Super Mario Bros. power-ups such as the shrinking mushroom and ice flower, and you have one of the most expanded skill-sets in the series’ 2D history.

“As is Nintendo’s nature now, New Super Mario Bros. U has been designed to cater players of all skill levels, and as such is rarely challenging. You can quite easily hold in excess of 50 lives if you know what you’re doing, making the gameplay feel like it’s set on some kind of hypnotic cruise control.”

Yoshi is also a powerful asset, as he can still gobble up enemies, hover while jumping and tread over some spiked foes, although he always pisses off at the end of each stage, which feels restrictive and out of sync with Super Mario World. Yoshi was a core mechanic in that game, but feels more like a side attraction here.

However, Yoshi babies can be found loitering around the world map, and are perhaps more useful than their grown-up equivalent. Simply walk up to one and it will follow you into the next stage.

From there you could theoretically hold on to one until the end of your current world if you wanted to, but doing so requires a great deal of patience and skill. Drop one in a level and it will eventually respawn on the world map after a while. Keep it safe however, and it can prove invaluable.

Pink Yoshi can inflate like a balloon, while blue Yoshi can blow bubbles that ensnare enemies and turn them into coins. The golden breed only appears within dark stages and can emit a powerful light that reveals hazards and collectibles. They’re all useful and slightly different, but again, they aren’t revolutionary.

As is Nintendo’s nature now, New Super Mario Bros. U has been designed to cater players of all skill levels, and as such is rarely challenging. You can quite easily hold in excess of 50 lives if you know what you’re doing, making the gameplay feel like it’s set on some kind of hypnotic cruise control.

Super Guide also returns, which gives you the option of seeing a tricky level completed by Luigi, essentially showing you how it should done. If you still can’t face it, you can opt to have the level complete itself, and while some some might applaud this option as a way of helping young kids or elderly players unfortunate enough to be born with two right thumbs, I simply can’t condone it personally.

It’s a cop-out if ever I saw one and in a game that isn’t exactly the pinnacle of difficulty to begin with, it feels like a coddling step too far. But that’s just me, I was born in a decade where games gave you one life and no continues, so it’s possible I’m just being a stereotypical Scottish grump.

Through all of this – the comforting familiar mechanics and design, the charming music and cute animations – there is a real sense that Nintendo has this formula so perfectly nailed that it doesn’t need to try too hard in order to create something special. It feels effortless, yet it’s clear that a lot of love has been poured into every level.

“It’s not quite a sequel to Nintendo’s SNES masterpiece, but it does enough to tickle your nostalgia bone for the duration while trying its hardest to shake up what you already know. However, that seismic shift is likely a task for Mario’s next 3D outing, whatever that may be.”

The HD visuals sing on the screen, helping each painfully detailed backdrop and character animation leap off the screen. It even looks superb on the Wii U GamePad, should you wish to be lazy and play from your bed on a Sunday morning like I did once.

In a weird way, the Wii U could be considered a powerhouse handheld, if it didn’t need the base console to function. It’s not of course, but the option of playing in different rooms is welcome, even if it guzzles batteries like two Game Gears taped together with the volume and brightness turned up to max.

For device-hungry fans you can even get four WiiMotes and your GamePad synced up to play co-op mode over a game of Boost Rush, which sees four on-screen players scrambling to survive a continually scrolling level while the GamePad operator creates platforms to help or hinder them. There are even single-player time attack and coin challenges in there too.

I’m usually more hyper and excited when talking about a game as polished and well-crafted as New Super Mario Bros. U – you’ve probably seen what I mean on these very pages before – but I honestly didn’t expect any less from Nintendo on this one, and chances are you already had presumptions about it too. If you did they’re probably correct.

So dependable has the brand become that you can hedge your bets after seeing some screens or a trailer. But that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t buy the game – far from it in fact – because as I mentioned earlier, it’s pitched at Super Mario World fans.

It’s not quite a sequel to Nintendo’s SNES masterpiece, but it does enough to tickle your nostalgia bone for the duration while trying its hardest to shake up what you already know. However, that seismic shift is likely a task for Mario’s next 3D outing, whatever that may be.

For now you can rest assured that New Super Mario Bros. U is a solid launch title, and a worthy companion to your shiny new Wii U console. What’s a Nintendo console without Mario games after all?

Disclosure:

To assist in writing this review ahead of the Wii U launch, Nintendo sent Dave a Premium Wii U console with New Super Mario Bros. U and Nintendo Land games bundled, as well as a Pro Controller. No review event or additional merchandise was offered or accepted.

]]>http://www.vg247.com/2012/11/27/new-super-mario-bros-u-same-princess-another-castle/feed/18Nintendo confirm Wii U midnight launch details, two free games for first 100 buyershttp://www.vg247.com/2012/11/23/nintendo-confirm-wii-u-midnight-launch-details-two-free-games-for-first-100-buyers/
http://www.vg247.com/2012/11/23/nintendo-confirm-wii-u-midnight-launch-details-two-free-games-for-first-100-buyers/#commentsFri, 23 Nov 2012 11:00:12 +0000http://www.vg247.com/?p=318334The clock is ticking towards the Wii U’s UK launch on November 30. Nintendo has confirmed details of its main midnight launch event, which will be held at HMV’s flagship London store on Oxford Street.

Need an incentive to get down there early? The first 100 customers will receive two free Wii U games. Super Mario Bros U will be lobbed towards the dedicated century of players, as well as another selected Wii U title.

If you miss out on the free games, the second 100 will receive £5 off Wii U software. Goodie bags will also be provided for the first 500 to snap up the console.

The store will be opening its doors from 11pm on November 29. You can have a quick play of Super Mario Bros U, ZombiU and Nintendo Land before making a purchase decision. Of course, expect plenty of costumes and terrible Italian accents throughout the night.

HMV has recently confirmed it will have extra stock to ensure everybody leaves with Nintendo’s product.

]]>http://www.vg247.com/2012/11/23/nintendo-confirm-wii-u-midnight-launch-details-two-free-games-for-first-100-buyers/feed/3Wii U: UK launch line up finalised, get the full roster herehttp://www.vg247.com/2012/11/22/wii-u-uk-launch-line-up-finalised-get-the-full-roster-here/
http://www.vg247.com/2012/11/22/wii-u-uk-launch-line-up-finalised-get-the-full-roster-here/#commentsThu, 22 Nov 2012 13:43:14 +0000http://www.vg247.com/?p=318172Wii U launches in UK and Europe from November 30th. Nintendo had released some launch titles for Britain previously, but now it has confirmed a full, final roster of 24 titles waiting to be snapped up from day-one. Check it out below.

The Wii U launched in the US at midnight on Sunday November 18. Pre-launch, Nintendo maintained a tight control on information regarding the console, but the floodgates have well and truly opened now. You’re drowning in the torrent, so let’s start with the most important question: is it any good?

Wii hardware reviews and impressions

Wii U hardware reviews – quick links

Everyone seems to agree that there’s plenty of fun to be had with the Wii U, but after that, things get messy. 1UP praised the console for its USB and SD card compatibility, while criticising the lack of video and audio out options and expressing doubts regarding the memory allowances – and said the modest, current-generation hardware won’t blow you away.

The Penny Arcade Report showed a lot of enthusiasm for the console, but bemoaned the sluggishness of its system menus and cumbersome game swapping process. The report concludes by calling the current firmware “half-baked”, but editor Ben Kuchera says he ‘adores’ the system and its games regardless.

GameInformer called a day one firmware update a “beast” and “excruciating”, but noted that the system is almost useless without it. The site seemed unimpressed with the Wii U’s video and browser functions; called MiiVerse “creepy”; and criticised the GamePad’s signal range and battery life.

MTV Multiplayer also had issues with charging the GamePad but otherwise was all praise for the new console, noting that “all signs point to a reality where Nintendo has learned from a lot of their mistakes with the Wii”.

The gamepad’s battery was an issue for Destructoid too, but the site called the controller “inherently superior” to the Wii’s even as it bemoaned the “simplistic” touchscreen.

Over on RipTen, criticism of the Wii U’s lack of audio out options was repeated, but the site also noted that the “lengthy” set up process was “painless”, and that the GamePad screen is “really lovely”.

The Wii U “doesn’t feel exactly like the next generation”, Joystiq said in its own review, but noted that the gamePad does feel futuristic and seemed impressed with the semi-portable tech.

Call of Duty: Black Ops 2 Wii U graphics
comparison.

In a lengthy, detailed report, Kotaku concluded that it couldn’t whole-heartedly recommend the Wii U as it would have the Wii. That said, despite not committing to a “must-buy” status, the site did say the Wii U “is a good machine that makes one’s console gaming life surprisingly more convenient and luxurious”.

Polygon was one of the few outlets to give the hardware a score, and went for an alarmingly low 6.5. The review was written before the day-one patch, and makes note of the total lack of online features – as well as Nintendo’s inconsistent messaging in this regard. The site is “cautious and indeed, somewhat pessimistic” about the Wii U’s chances against next-generation hardware and cast doubts on the likelihood of decent third-party support.

Gamasutra also took a somewhat negative tone, saying the console just doesn’t “sing” to the consumer straight out the box, and may be “half-baked”.

On a more positive note, Shack News made mention of the system’s “seamless integration of TV and second screen” which “must be commended”. The site said it’s “clear the tech works”, but did wonder whether the Wii U will stand up, graphically, to next-generation hardware.

One criticism repeated on multiplate sites is that the console has launched without TVii. Speaking to MTV Multiplayer Nintendo of America boss Reggie Fils-Aime discussed the delay.

“One of the things that we were criticized for yesterday was for the lack of some of the video on demand content, but I can tell you that when consumers buy their system, Netflix will be live,” he said.

Batman: Arkham City – Armored Edition
graphics comparison

“I share that because it really reflects how this is a living and breathing system. In the days and weeks ahead, the other three video services will be up and running. We’ve said that Nintendo TVii is coming in December, and so it truly is a living, breathing system that will bring more and more elements to bear over the days, weeks, months, and years ahead.”

One user has already taken a Wii U apart to find out what makes it tick, and according to a report on Kotaku, the answer is 2GB of Samsung-manufactured DDR3 RAM. Critics say this RAM runs at 17 GB per second, which is slower than alleged PlayStation 3 and Xbox 360 speeds of 22-25 GB per second. The figures are a little meaningless at this point however as we don’t yet know how much eDRAM the console has, which could significantly impact performance.

Wii U’s huge day-one firmware update

As many reviews noted, it was difficult to judge the Wii U pre-launch because so many of its online features – Miiverse, the eShop, the Internet browser and backwards compatibility – are not bundled in, but instead delivered by day one firmware update.

This patch has raised ire among early adopters thanks to its heft; Siliconera noted with displeasure that the update took almost a full hour to download, and then half an hour to install.

Speaking to Polygon, Nintendo of America’s director of product marketing Bill Trinen said a firmware patch was necessary to give Nintendo’s engineers time to make specific features as perfect as possible.

“They’re craftsmen. And as craftsmen, they want to use every last possible moment to continue to make things the best that they can possibly be,” he said.

“If it’s live the moment [consumers] bring the system home, that’s what really matters,” he added when asked about press frustration with missing features pre-launch.

Multiple reports suggest powering off the Wii U during this huge system update can cause serious technical issues – “bricked” consoles – but none have been verified yet. Best to play it safe and ensure your console is powered during any download or install process.

Setting up your Wii U

Of course, you won’t be able to get this update at all if you can’t get your Wii U online, and this is something users have reported difficulties with. If you have a reasonable understanding of networking you can probably sort it out on your own, but if you’re a bit baffled by IP addresses and subnet masks, here’s a solution provided by a Nintendo forum user.

After install, reports suggest a Wii U Premium’s available system memory will drop from 32GB to 25GB; the 8GB model has only 3GB of usable space. Apparently alert to complaints about both the 8GB and 32GB consoles’ memory limits, Nintendo has provided a hefty FAQ on how to get the most out of it – one notable point is that Nintendo Land cannot be downloaded and installed on an 8GB system, but must be purchased at retail. Nintendo recommends padding out your console with USB storage devices if you intend to use the eShop a lot.

Ninja Gaiden 3: Razor’s Edge Wii U
launch trailer

Once the patch is installed, you’ll have access to backwards compatibility, and will want to transfer your Wii profile across. We’ve touched on this before, but Kotaku has a visual guide now. GoNintendo reports not everything can be copied over – you’ll lose your Wii system settings, pre-installed WiiWare and Virtual Console games, GameCube save files, software already present on both consoles and content which is prohibited from transfer.

Nintendo’s hated friend codes have been overhauled for the Wii U but reception of the new system has been mixed. IGN has full details of how and when you can make friend requests, either in MiiVerse or from the Home menu, and notes that both areas use a different system, which seems complicated.

One last interesting little note about setting up your console: registering a user profile for a minor costs 50¢, charged to a parent or guardian’s credit card. The restriction only applies to children aged under 13, and exists so Nintendo can verify an adult is actually making the registration in compliance with the Children’s Online Privacy Protection Act; hopefully this will result in caregivers learning about and utilising parental control systems, too.

Wii U launch software impressions, details and complaints

Impressions on the Wii U’s launch software – especially of ported games – have been mixed. 1UP seems unhappy with Mass Effect 3, while IGN isn’t impressed by Ninja Gaiden 3: Razor’s Edge (although Kotaku says it “sucks less” than previous versions). Questions have been raised regarding the console’s graphical capabilities; a number of videos are available throughout this feature showing side-by-side comparisons.

Meta-game MiiVerse went down on day one, according to Kotaku, which hasn’t impressed users (and may be related to NeoGAF‘s discovery of a rumoured debug mode).

As for eShop games, post-patch the storefront is live and well populated; see the list in the sidebar. GoNintendo reports games must be downloaded and installed in a two-step process, as with the PlayStation 3, which has disappointed some users who just want to get on with the game. Trine 2, for example, apparently takes 17 minutes to install after downloading. On top of that, some games – like ZombiU – require day-one patches, proving Nintendo really has joined the connected age.

One game which surprised users is Trine 2: Director’s Cut, which was expected during the launch window but managed to hit release day. Joystiq reports the $20 game is a 2GB download, includes 20 levels, and boasts a special new multiplayer mode called Magic Mayhem, exclusive to the Wii U version.

Launch and supply issues

The console’s performance and software probably isn’t the motivation for it, but as Kotaku notes, the on-sell market for Wii U hardware, games and accessories is already booming. The site found well over 600 consoles on eBay for $520 or more, with premium bundles going for as much as $800. Nintendo isn’t expecting the kind of supply issues it had when the Wii launched, but bids on these grey market consoles are only rising, and the general social media noise suggests supplies are limited.

“Our goal, of course, is to manufacture as many as we can as quickly as we can,” Trinen said when asked about hardware shortages, saying Nintendo hoped to match the Wii’s sales performance.

“I think it’s gonna be a strong first year and I think there’ll be more to come after that as well.”

Trine 2: Director’s Cut Wii U launch trailer.

As Gematsu‘s photo coverage of the New York Wii U launch shows, Isaiah Triforce Jones was once again first in line to grab the latest Nintendo console.

Fils-Aime turned up at the New York event to surprise those in queue 24 hours before launch; Kotaku has video of the visit.

The Wii U released in the US on November 18, as a $300 white 8GB basic bundle, and a $350 black 32GB premium bundle. The new console arrives in Europe and Australia on November 30. It hits Japan on December 8.

]]>http://www.vg247.com/2012/11/19/wii-u-launches-in-the-us-reviews-impressions-details/feed/34New Super Mario Bros. U DLC confirmed, first details teasedhttp://www.vg247.com/2012/11/16/new-super-mario-bros-u-dlc-confirmed-first-details-teased/
http://www.vg247.com/2012/11/16/new-super-mario-bros-u-dlc-confirmed-first-details-teased/#commentsFri, 16 Nov 2012 10:01:02 +0000http://www.vg247.com/?p=316532Nintendo has embraced the DLC generation it seems, as New Super Mario Bros. U follows the example laid down by its baby brother New Super Mario Bros. 2 on 3DS. The developer has hinted at incoming content as part of a new Iwata Asks session. Check out the tease below.

ONM reports that New Super Mario Bros. producer Takashi Tekuza said the team is, “Planning additional courses,” for the game, although he suggested that the content could be a long way off yet.

“We’re trying to think of ways of play that are different from New Super Mario Bros. 2, but we haven’t made anything yet.”

]]>http://www.vg247.com/2012/11/16/new-super-mario-bros-u-dlc-confirmed-first-details-teased/feed/5New Super Mario Bros. U reviews – all in one placehttp://www.vg247.com/2012/11/15/new-super-mario-bros-u-reviews-round-up/
http://www.vg247.com/2012/11/15/new-super-mario-bros-u-reviews-round-up/#commentsThu, 15 Nov 2012 19:16:12 +0000http://www.vg247.com/?p=316276New Super Mario Bros. U reviews have started coming out of the woodwork. Find out what various folks think of it below.

New Super Mario Bros. U releases November 18 in the US and November 30 in the UK.

]]>http://www.vg247.com/2012/11/15/new-super-mario-bros-u-reviews-round-up/feed/3New Super Mario Bros. U being given away on Black Friday by Old Navyhttp://www.vg247.com/2012/11/10/new-super-mario-bros-u-being-given-away-on-black-friday-by-old-navy/
http://www.vg247.com/2012/11/10/new-super-mario-bros-u-being-given-away-on-black-friday-by-old-navy/#respondSat, 10 Nov 2012 15:02:23 +0000http://www.vg247.com/?p=314984New Super Mario Bros. U will be handed out to Old Navy customers on Black Friday, November 23.

The catch, is that customers have to spend at least $40 at the store before the game is added to their bag at checkout.

The promotion will only be available to a limited number of customers who will be graced with wristband on a first-come-first-serve basis as they come through the door.

The wristband can then be traded for the game, should the customer spend the aforementioned $40 on purchases.

Old Navy will also be giving away 1000 Wii U Basic Sets at select stores on November 23.

]]>http://www.vg247.com/2012/11/10/new-super-mario-bros-u-being-given-away-on-black-friday-by-old-navy/feed/0Wii U console requires day-one update – reporthttp://www.vg247.com/2012/11/07/wii-u-console-requires-a-day-one-update-report/
http://www.vg247.com/2012/11/07/wii-u-console-requires-a-day-one-update-report/#commentsWed, 07 Nov 2012 09:08:56 +0000http://www.vg247.com/?p=313847Wii U is out across Europe from November 30th, but game sites have started receiving their units for review now, revealing that Nintendo’s hardware requires a day-one update at launch. Get the details below.

IGN reports that the site’s Wii U required an update at first start. The site reports that the update added Miiverse, Wii U Chat, Nintendo TVii, and the eShop download store to the console, although it was unclear if other changes were included.

VG247 has also had extensive hands-on time with most of the European Wii U launch titles, and we found them to be largely enjoyable, with ZombiU, Nintendo Land, New Super Mario Bros U and Trine 2 to be some of the best games on offer.

]]>http://www.vg247.com/2012/11/07/wii-u-console-requires-a-day-one-update-report/feed/5Wii U reviews begin: Mario & Nintendo Land ratedhttp://www.vg247.com/2012/11/05/wii-u-reviews-begin-mario-nintendo-land-rated/
http://www.vg247.com/2012/11/05/wii-u-reviews-begin-mario-nintendo-land-rated/#commentsMon, 05 Nov 2012 10:26:18 +0000http://www.vg247.com/?p=313134Wii U is out across Europe from November 30th, and the console’s first software reviews have arrived online courtesy of Games Master. Check out the scores and what was said below.

CVG reports that the reviews come from this week’s issue of Games Master.

The issue awards Nintendo Land an 86/100 score and New Super Mario Bros. U an 82/100 – perhaps not the kind of stellar scoring one would expect from flagship console launch titles.

CVG adds that the Nintendo Land review stated it contains “some of the most innovative, raucous and party-fuelling fun we’ve ever had with a console.”

On Mario, the magazine stated that it “bodes well for Mario’s future Wii U outings”.

What’s your take? Let us know below, and be sure to check out our own hands-on impressions with both games here:

]]>http://www.vg247.com/2012/11/05/wii-u-reviews-begin-mario-nintendo-land-rated/feed/5New Super Mario Bros. U gets new super game mode detailshttp://www.vg247.com/2012/10/30/new-super-mario-bros-u-gets-new-super-game-mode-details/
http://www.vg247.com/2012/10/30/new-super-mario-bros-u-gets-new-super-game-mode-details/#respondTue, 30 Oct 2012 18:42:29 +0000http://www.vg247.com/?p=311590Nintendo continues to drip feed details about New Super Mario Bros. U as the platformer gets closer and closer to its launch next month. Today, the company detailed a new character and game mode called Nabbit.

Nabbit is described as a mischievous, speedy creature that will sometimes appear on the world map. It’ll steal items from Toad, which will then need to be recovered by players. If they can nab it (get it?) all back, they’ll receive a P-Acorn, which can only be gotten from Nabbit, and will let players continuously fly through an entire stage.

Other gameplay details were provided as well, but most of them have either already been known or aren’t too surprising. They’re listed below, though, just to get you caught up to speed.

Challenge Mode: Challenge Mode tasks players with completing specific objectives, such as clearing a course without touching a single coin or touching the ground. There are four single-player Challenge categories: Time Attack, Coin Collection, 1-Up Rally and Special (miscellaneous challenges). Boost Mode Challenges require two players, with one player using the Wii U GamePad controller and the other using a Wii Remote controller. Once players complete a Challenge, the game saves a replay of the action so players can show off their accomplishments.

Coin Battle: Up to five players can play together and compete to see who can collect the most coins. One player will use the Wii U GamePad controller while the other four players use the Wii Remote controller. The player using the Wii U GamePad controller in Boost Mode can place Boost Blocks to help grab hard-to-reach coins. Players can also use the GamePad to edit and customize the coin layout in courses found only in Coin Battle. The coin layout can then be saved and played by the players using Wii Remote controllers.

World Map: New Super Mario Bros. U is the first side-scrolling Mario game since 1991’s Super Mario World that features a seamless World Map with named worlds and courses. The map contains many secret exits, which might change the map and cause shortcuts to appear. The worlds are interconnected, so people can play through the game in a nonlinear fashion.

New Super Mario Bros. U launches alongside the Wii U on November 18 in North America, and on November 30 in Europe.

]]>http://www.vg247.com/2012/10/30/new-super-mario-bros-u-gets-new-super-game-mode-details/feed/0Nintendo u-turns on New Super Mario Bros. U 1080p claimshttp://www.vg247.com/2012/10/12/nintendo-u-turns-on-new-super-mario-bros-u-1080p-claims/
http://www.vg247.com/2012/10/12/nintendo-u-turns-on-new-super-mario-bros-u-1080p-claims/#commentsFri, 12 Oct 2012 10:08:36 +0000http://www.vg247.com/?p=306416Nintendo recently stated on the official New Super Mario Bros. U site that the game would run in full 1080p. However, the developer has now retracted the claim, stating that the game will simply run in ‘high definition’.

“Experience Mario like never before… in full 1080p HD, only on the Wii U console!”

To:

“Experience Mario like never before… in high definition, only on the Wii U console!”

Thoughts people?

]]>http://www.vg247.com/2012/10/12/nintendo-u-turns-on-new-super-mario-bros-u-1080p-claims/feed/22New Super Mario Bros. U: 1080p support confirmedhttp://www.vg247.com/2012/10/11/new-super-mario-bros-u-1080p-support-confirmed/
http://www.vg247.com/2012/10/11/new-super-mario-bros-u-1080p-support-confirmed/#commentsThu, 11 Oct 2012 09:05:28 +0000http://www.vg247.com/?p=305939New Super Mario Bros. U launches alongside Wii U on November 30th in the UK. THe good news for fans of massive tellies is that the game will support 1080p.

The game was shown at recent showcases running in 720p, but Eurogamer reports that the game’s official website states, “Experience Mario like never before… in full 1080p HD, only on the Wii U console!”

Are you excited for Wii U or could you simply not give a toss? Let us know below.

]]>http://www.vg247.com/2012/10/11/new-super-mario-bros-u-1080p-support-confirmed/feed/5New Super Mario Bros. U gets co-op trailer, music still grateshttp://www.vg247.com/2012/10/04/new-super-mario-bros-u-gets-co-op-trailer-music-still-grates/
http://www.vg247.com/2012/10/04/new-super-mario-bros-u-gets-co-op-trailer-music-still-grates/#commentsThu, 04 Oct 2012 08:54:14 +0000http://www.vg247.com/?p=303487New Super Mario Bros. U is out November 30th across Europe. The game has received a new co-op trailer from Nintendo, showing off the value of working together. Anyone else fed up of the new Mario game music?

]]>http://www.vg247.com/2012/10/04/new-super-mario-bros-u-gets-co-op-trailer-music-still-grates/feed/2Wii U: £349 Zombi U bundle spotted on Game’s online storehttp://www.vg247.com/2012/09/14/wii-u-349-zombi-u-bundle-spotted-on-games-online-store/
http://www.vg247.com/2012/09/14/wii-u-349-zombi-u-bundle-spotted-on-games-online-store/#commentsFri, 14 Sep 2012 12:31:36 +0000http://www.vg247.com/?p=297428Wii U is still waiting on official Nintendo pricing for the UK, but retailer Game has jumped the gun and is now pre-selling a Wii U premium bundle with Zombi U thrown in for £349.99. The retailer has other bundles listed too.

We’ll keep our ears to the ground for more when more UK stockists reveal their Wii U pricing.

]]>http://www.vg247.com/2012/09/14/wii-u-349-zombi-u-bundle-spotted-on-games-online-store/feed/5Wii U: release event trailers, watch them all herehttp://www.vg247.com/2012/09/14/wii-u-release-event-trailers-watch-them-all-here/
http://www.vg247.com/2012/09/14/wii-u-release-event-trailers-watch-them-all-here/#commentsFri, 14 Sep 2012 08:41:40 +0000http://www.vg247.com/?p=297274Wii U was laid bare by Nintendo yesterday, as the Japanese giant unveiled pricing and release date information for all regions, as well as a slew of software announcements and a handful of trailers. Some trailers are new, others were re-released by Nintendo last night.

Watch all of the games in action below. We’ll add more trailers as they come.

]]>http://www.vg247.com/2012/09/14/new-super-mario-bros-u-official-wii-u-boxart-revealed/feed/11Nintendo reveals Wii U software line-up for Japanhttp://www.vg247.com/2012/09/13/nintendo-reveals-wii-u-software-line-up-for-japan/
http://www.vg247.com/2012/09/13/nintendo-reveals-wii-u-software-line-up-for-japan/#commentsThu, 13 Sep 2012 14:44:31 +0000http://www.vg247.com/?p=296732Nintendo has revealed its first and third-party software line-up for Wii U in Japan. It includes known quantities such as Assassin’s Creed 3 and Mass Effect 3 and some previously unannounced titles in the form of Ninja Gaiden: Razor’s Edge and Bayonetta 2.

In its second Nintendo Direct presentation of the day, Nintendo of Japan revealed details of its first and third-party software line-up for its home territory.

Monster Hunter 3G HD Version, also to be offered as part of a software bundle

And other, undated titles:

The Wonderful 101

Bayonetta 2 (a Wii U exclusive)

Dragon Quest X

There was no mention of Call of Duty: Black Ops 2 for Japan, despite news of its arrival leaking minutes before the presentation started. Nor was there any showing of previously announced titles Darksiders II or Aliens: Colonial Marines.

]]>http://www.vg247.com/2012/09/13/nintendo-reveals-wii-u-software-line-up-for-japan/feed/7New Super Mario Bros. U: 7 worlds confirmed, Boost Rush mode detailedhttp://www.vg247.com/2012/09/10/new-super-mario-bros-u-7-worlds-confirmed-boost-rush-mode-detailed/
http://www.vg247.com/2012/09/10/new-super-mario-bros-u-7-worlds-confirmed-boost-rush-mode-detailed/#commentsMon, 10 Sep 2012 09:34:08 +0000http://www.vg247.com/?p=295304New Super Mario Bros. U has received a batch of lovely new screens and details from GameInformer this week. Nintendo has revealed seven worlds so far, along with a host of new plot and gameplay features.

The game will – once again – see Mario chasing after a kidnapped Princess Peach while battling hordes of Bowser’s minions across at least seven new worlds.

ONM reports on Game Informer’s coverage of the game, listing seven of the worlds as “Acorn Plains, Sparkling Waters (tropical), Frosted Glacier, Layer Cake Desert (complete with melting desserts), areas similar to Forest of Illusion and Sky World and a world surround by a tornado.”

The game will also include a new Boost Rush mode which makes any level scroll, meaning you have to keep up with the stage as it shifts. No pressure then.

Meanwhile, Nintendo has revealed a batch of New Super Mario Bros. U screens that underline a Super Mario World influence, including art, enemies, gameplay features and other elements taken from Nintendo’s 1992 SNES classic.